ADRIAN — An Adrian man returning from a year of military duty in Afghanistan surprised his three children Friday at Alexander Elementary School in Adrian.

Sgt. Richard Cutting from the 210th Military Police Battalion based in Taylor had told his family he was expecting to be home next week, but arranged to return early to surprise his three children, Kaylee, 8, Richard, 7, and Cassandra, 6.

The children were playing on classroom computers when their father walked in to surprise them. Within moments, they were sharing embraces they hadn't been able to share for a year.

When young Richard was asked how he felt to have his dad home early, he flashed a big smile and gave a thumbs up.

Cutting said it is good to be home and see his family beyond using Skype, but he is still getting readjusted to the cold weather and snow.

Richard's wife, Nancy, said he is scheduled to be home for the long-term. The new battalion to which he has been assigned is not expected to deploy